Faculty Syllabus

Course Description

Digital imaging using raster image editing and/or image creation software: scanning, resolution, file formats, output devices, color systems, and image-acquisitions. (WECM) This is a solid introduction to Adobe Photoshop with specific attention to practical applications to include preparing images for print (halftone theory) and web output. Gain proficiency with Adobe Photoshop panels, image editing, selections, layers, masks, and paths. Introduction to layer styles, type effects, and filters. Encourages creative studio skills.

Course Rationale

Digital Imaging 1 is a foundation course using industry standard imaging software to help prepare students in the following specializations: graphic design, graphic arts technology, interactive design and motion graphics. Production and technical skills are reinforced through project-based assignments. Students are provided an opportunity to obtain real life experiences. Practicing professionals may upgrade their job skills.

Challenge to ARTC 1302:

Students cannot be currently or previously enrolled in the Digital Imaging I class they are challenging. Challenge test forms may be picked up in Admissions. Admissions will confirm whether the student has been previously enrolled. 

Google Drive and Blackboard

All students at ACC have access to Google Drive. This is an excellent alternative to for backing up you work that could be accessible from any location. Google Drive is not fail safe. As with USB drives, be sure to download work at your computer for editing. Do not work on-line. You may also share your work with your instructor which could be an alternative to Blackboard uploads. Please verify usage with your instructor.

Instructional Methodology

Demonstrations/presentations/tutorials followed by independent lab work and “real world”, hands-on projects. Opportunity is provided for lab and on-line students to have discussion, exchange ideas and share projects. (Recorded tutorials and links to material in Blackboard)

Pre-Requisite: None

Required Text and Materials
Adobe Photoshop Classroom in a Book 2026 Release
By Conrad Chavez
Published Dec 25, 2025 by Adobe Press. Part of the Classroom in a Book series.

Copyright 2026
Dimensions: 7-3/8" x 9-1/8"
Pages: 448
Edition: 1st
Book
ISBN-10: 0-13-549500-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-13-549500-1

Supplies

High-speed Internet access and your ACC email are essential for online sections. Adobe Photoshop CC software. Recommend access to digital camera and/ scanner.

For ACC special pricing on Adobe software visit: https://www.austincc.edu/adobe-creative-cloud-acc

Course Description

This course introduces you to the essentials of digital imaging through Adobe Photoshop, the industry-standard software for raster image editing and creation. You’ll learn how to manage resolution, work with different file formats, and prepare images for both print and web output. Along the way, you’ll build hands-on skills with Photoshop’s core tools: panels, selections, layers, masks, and paths. We’ll also explore creative techniques using layer styles, type effects, and filters. By the end of the course, you’ll have a solid technical foundation and the confidence to apply Photoshop in both practical and imaginative ways.

Competencies (subject to change)

MODULE 1: Discover Photoshop Work Area and File Formats

MODULE 2: Apply Basic Photo Corrections

MODULE 3: Use Photoshop Selections and Layers

MODULE 4: Make and Use Masks for Non Destructive Editing

MODULE 5: Make and Use Type and Vectors

MODULE 6 CAPSTONE : Prepare Files for Print and Web Outputs

Instructional Methodology

Demonstrations, presentations, and tutorials followed by independent lab work and “real-world”, hands-on projects. Opportunities are provided for lab and online students to engage in discussions, exchange ideas, and share projects. (Recorded tutorials and links to material in Blackboard)

Grading System

90 —100 =A, 80 —89 =B, 70 —79 =C 60 —69 =D, 59 and less =F

Resource Files/Journal               5%

Assignments & Mini Projects        35%

Quizzes                                    10%

Competency Projects               30%

Capstone Project                     15%

Discussion Boards                    5%

Passing Grade Policy: Effective September 2005, “Ds” are not accepted as a passing grade within the Visual Communication Department courses. Students receiving a grade of D must retake the course to receive credit and to progress to the next level course. Students who made a D before September 2005 will be allowed to proceed to the next level course.

Student Learning Outcomes

• Identify and specify different graphics file formats for print and web.

• Distinguish image resolution from resolution of input and output devices.

• Explain bit depth and image modes (bit map, grayscale, RGB and CMYK).

• Edit using retouching tools (healing brush, clone tool, patch tool) to use in composites.

• Master the selection tools (wand, marquee, lasso, quick selection).

• Demonstrate proficiency with layers (naming, organizing sets, styles, adjustment layers).

• Demonstrate proficiency creating and editing masks (Quick, channels, layers, clipping).

• Distinguish between vector and raster graphics.

• Use the pen tool as a selection and vector masks device.

• Use type and type effects.

• Optimize images for output to print and web.

• Control use of selected filters.

• Create well-executed composite images giving consideration to “non-destructive” editing.

• Learning Outcomes Workforce Education Course Manual (WECM):

• Identify terminology, advantages and limitations of image editing software; distinguish bit-mapped resolutions for image acquisitions and output devices; use digital editing and painting tools; use basic half-tone theory in production of images, manipulate, create, and edit digital images for print and for web; specify appropriate file formats.

  Program-Level Student Learning Outcomes

  This course is offered in more than one degree plan. For more information on the Program-level Student Learning Outcomes (PSLO) for this course in your degree, please go to http://www.viscom.austincc.edu/pslo